Aurora Expeditions has named Hayley Peacock-Gower as its first chief marketing officer to “drive global growth” for the line.

Peacock-Gower has more than 20 years’ experience in strategic branding, marketing and media for a number of Australian and global brands and agencies.

The appointment comes as Aurora Expeditions plans for the launch of its second purpose-built ship, Sylvia Earle, in 2022.

The ship, following on from Greg Mortimer, will feature the X-BOW, which is designed to improve environmental performance and fuel efficiency.

Aurora CEO Monique Ponfoort said: “Hayley is a top talent, a passionate and meaningful addition to the executive leadership team.

“Her extensive background and skills will add immeasurably in building the marketing, content and strategic partnership platform that will drive growth for the Aurora brand.”

Peacock-Gower added: “This is an incredible opportunity to innovate with new content and transformative experiences which will drive interest and demand while positioning the brand for future growth.

“There is no better opportunity both professionally and personally, especially given the timing, as we accelerate meaningful changes in our ongoing care for the planet programmes, and our imminent return to what Aurora Expeditions does best – life-changing small-ship expeditions.”

Aurora Expeditions recently released details about its first Antarctic Climate Expedition, to take place in 2023.

The 12-day event will start on 13 February 2023, with two nights and a full-day conference in Ushuaia, Argentina, followed by a nine-day voyage on Sylvia Earle.

In June 2021, the line also welcomed Jos Dewing as its first-ever UK managing director.

In a recent interview with Cruise Trade News, Dewing spoke of how the line will continue to focus on an “authentic, small-ship experience”, adding: “There’s a great spirit of Australian camaraderie in the business and it flows through down to the guests and the expedition team. The expedition DNA really runs through the business and that makes it unique.”